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This week, Apple made a significant update by adding support for Rich Communication Services (RCS) to Messages in the second developer beta of iOS 18. This means iPhone users can now enjoy features like high-quality images, read receipts, and typing indicators when messaging with Android users. However, the infamous green text bubbles still remain.
OpenAI has announced a delay in the release of its new Voice Mode due to some unforeseen issues. The advanced Voice Mode, initially planned for a small group of ChatGPT Plus users in June, will now be rolled out in July. Depending on internal checks, it may not be available to all users until fall.
The FCC has proposed a rule that would make it easier for consumers to unlock their phones from carriers. This move would allow all devices to be unlockable just 60 days after purchase, potentially enabling phones to work with different mobile networks.
News
OpenAI releases ChatGPT for Mac: ChatGPT is now accessible to all macOS users via a new app, allowing users to access it quickly using a keyboard shortcut. Read more
Apple reportedly won’t integrate Meta’s AI models after all: After initial reports of collaboration, Apple has decided against integrating Meta’s AI models due to privacy concerns. Read more
Waymo ditches its waitlist in San Francisco: Waymo has made its robotaxi service available to all users in San Francisco, making self-driving technology more accessible. Read more
Zuckerberg disses “closed” AI: Mark Zuckerberg emphasizes the importance of open source AI over closed source competitors in a recent interview. Read more
Andrew Ng’s AI Fund wants to raise a lot of cash: Andrew Ng’s AI Fund aims to raise over $120 million for its second initiative, supporting teams solving problems using AI. Read more
Gemini AI comes to Gmail: Google introduces Gemini AI in Gmail to assist users in email drafting and information retrieval. Read more
OpenAI continues its M&A tear: OpenAI acquires Multi, a startup focused on video collaboration, with most of its team set to join OpenAI. Read more
An eerie smiling robot with living skin: Researchers explore the concept of robots with human-like living skin, revealing unsettling results. Read more
Meta’s chatbots head to India: Meta expands its AI chatbot availability to users in India after testing during the general elections. Read more
Prosus zeroes out its stake in Byju’s: Significant investor Prosus writes off its stake in Indian edtech startup Byju’s, expressing optimism for the future. Read more
Analysis
Silicon Valley is being weird about DEI again: A discussion on DEI in Silicon Valley sparks controversy, with some suggesting a shift towards “MEI” (merit, excellence, intelligence). However, data shows that a meritocracy is not necessarily superior to DEI. Read more
What Ayana Parsons’ resignation means: The resignation of Fearless Fund’s co-founder highlights a troubling trend of increased anti-DEI sentiment in tech. The situation reflects the challenges faced by Black women in the VC world. Read more